Banana Donut Holes

These Banana Donut Holes are a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of bananas with the fun of donut holes. Ideal for breakfast or a quick snack, these air fryer treats are not only easy to make but also allow you to enjoy a classic favorite without the fuss. In just under 15 minutes, you can satisfy your cravings with these fluffy bites, making them perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just two main ingredients, these donut holes come together in no time, perfect for busy mornings.
• Healthy Twist: Made with ripe bananas and coconut oil, they offer a healthier alternative to traditional fried donuts.
• Versatile Flavor: Customize with spices or toppings to suit your taste; they’re delicious as-is or with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar.
• Kid-Friendly: These donut holes are fun to make and even more fun to eat—great for involving kids in the kitchen!
• Air Fryer Magic: Enjoy that satisfying donut texture without deep frying. The air fryer helps keep them light and fluffy.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Air fryer
• Mixing bowl
• Rubber spatula
• Parchment paper
• Pastry brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Air fryer: This tool cooks your donut holes evenly while keeping them lighter than traditional frying methods.
• Mixing bowl: A good-sized bowl is essential for mashing bananas and combining ingredients effortlessly.
• Rubber spatula: Helps mix the batter thoroughly without damaging its texture.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze when placing the donut holes on the plate.

Ingredients

To make these delightful Banana Donut Holes, you’ll need:

For the Donut Holes:

• 1/2 cup Banana (1 large banana)
• 3/4 cup Self-Rising Flour
• 1/2 teaspoon Cinnamon
• 1/4 cup Sugar
• 2 tablespoons Coconut Oil (melted, or melted vegan butter)
• 2-3 teaspoons Melted Coconut Oil

How to Make Banana Donut Holes

Step 1: Prepare the Banana

1. Mash the banana into a smooth puree until you have exactly 1/2 cup. This measurement is crucial for achieving the right consistency in your batter.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients

1. Add the flour and stir using a rubber spatula until lumps form.
2. Oil your hands lightly and knead the dough until it forms a sticky ball. Avoid adding too much flour; if it’s overly moist, add up to 2-3 tablespoons more.

Step 3: Shape the Donut Holes

1. Grease your hands with melted coconut oil.
2. Take about a tablespoon of dough, roll it into a ball, and place it on a plate lined with parchment paper. Repeat this step until all dough is shaped.
3. Lightly spray avocado oil over the formed balls.

Step 4: Air Frying Process

1. Spray oil in the air fryer basket.
2. Arrange the oiled donut holes in the basket, ensuring they are spaced about an inch apart.
3. Set air fryer temperature to 350°F (180°C) and cook for 6-7 minutes until puffy and golden brown.

Step 5: Add Finishing Touches

1. Brush each warm donut hole with melted coconut oil using a pastry brush.
2. Roll each oiled ball in cinnamon sugar to coat evenly.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Serve these delicious banana donut holes warm for the best flavor experience! Enjoy this simple yet delightful treat anytime you have ripe bananas on hand!

How to Serve Banana Donut Holes

These delightful banana donut holes are versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast or as a snack, here are some creative serving suggestions.

With a Fruit Dip

• Yogurt Dip: Mix Greek yogurt with honey and a hint of vanilla for a creamy dip.
• Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle melted dark chocolate for an indulgent treat.

Topped with Nuts

• Chopped Walnuts: Sprinkle chopped walnuts for added crunch and nutrition.
• Almond Slices: Garnish with almond slices for a nutty flavor that complements the banana.

Dusted with Powdered Sugar

• Classic Sweet Touch: Lightly dust the warm donut holes with powdered sugar for extra sweetness and visual appeal.

Served on a Skewer

• Fruit Skewers: Alternate banana donut holes with fresh fruit like strawberries or pineapple on skewers for a fun presentation.

How to Perfect Banana Donut Holes

Creating the perfect banana donut holes is easier with these simple tips. Follow these suggestions for the best results.

• Use Ripe Bananas: Choose overripe bananas for maximum sweetness and flavor.
• Knead Lightly: Be gentle when kneading the dough; overworking it can lead to tough donut holes.
• Keep Dough Moist: If the dough feels too dry, add a touch more coconut oil instead of flour.
• Preheat Air Fryer: Ensure your air fryer is preheated to achieve an even cook and better texture.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the timer; every air fryer is different, so adjust as necessary.

Best Side Dishes for Banana Donut Holes

Pairing these banana donut holes with side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some tasty options to consider.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances out the sweetness of the donuts.
2. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with granola and berries for a healthy and satisfying side.
3. Nut Butter Dip: Serve with almond or peanut butter for a protein-packed pairing that complements the flavors.
4. Coconut Chia Pudding: This creamy pudding offers a unique texture that pairs well with the soft donut holes.
5. Oatmeal Bowl: A warm bowl of oatmeal topped with nuts and honey can complement your dessert nicely.
6. Smoothie Bowl: Blend fruits into a smoothie bowl and top it off with granola or seeds for extra crunch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Banana Donut Holes, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Using overripe bananas – While ripe bananas are ideal for sweetness, using overly brown ones can lead to a mushy texture. Aim for ripe but firm bananas for the best results.
• Not measuring accurately – It’s crucial to measure the banana and flour correctly. Too much flour can make your donut holes dense, while too little can cause them to fall apart. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.
• Skipping the oil on your hands – If you don’t oil your hands while shaping the dough, it will stick and create a mess. Always grease your hands with coconut oil before handling the dough.
• Crowding the air fryer – Overloading the air fryer can prevent even cooking and result in unevenly cooked donut holes. Leave enough space between each piece for proper air circulation.
• Ignoring cooking times – Each air fryer may vary slightly in temperature settings. Keep an eye on your banana donut holes as they cook to avoid burning and ensure they achieve that golden brown color.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover banana donut holes in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 2 days in the fridge.

Freezing Banana Donut Holes

• Place cooled donut holes in a single layer on a baking sheet, then freeze until solid.
• Transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating Banana Donut Holes

• Oven – Preheat at 350°F (180°C) and bake for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave – Heat one at a time on medium power for about 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop – Heat in a lightly oiled skillet over low heat until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Banana Donut Holes that might help you make the perfect batch.

Can I use regular flour instead of self-rising flour for Banana Donut Holes?

Yes, but you will need to add baking powder and salt. Use 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 1 teaspoon of baking powder and a pinch of salt.

How do I know when my banana donut holes are done?

The donut holes should be puffy and golden brown on the outside. A toothpick inserted into one should come out clean.

Can I customize my Banana Donut Holes?

Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits into the dough before cooking for extra flavor.

What can I serve with Banana Donut Holes?

These delicious treats pair well with yogurt, whipped cream, or even a drizzle of chocolate sauce for dipping.

Are these Banana Donut Holes healthy?

They are a healthier alternative compared to traditional donuts due to their lower fat content and natural sweetness from bananas.

Final Thoughts

These Banana Donut Holes are not only quick and easy but also offer delightful flavors that will satisfy any sweet tooth. You can customize them with various mix-ins or toppings, making them versatile for any occasion. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy these delightful bites fresh from your air fryer!